Character dining is an integral part of Orlando’s theme park dining experience. From the opportunity to enjoy breakfast with Chef Mickey and friends, to the excitement of dining with Captain America and some of your favorite Avengers, there’s no shortage of unique character meet-and-greets when grabbing a bite to eat at one of Orlando’s major theme parks. But with so many different character dining options to choose from, it may be difficult to determine which experiences may be worth it, and which ones you may need to pass on; that’s where Tim and Jenn step in. If there’s a character dining experience you are interested in, chances are, Tim and Jenn have experienced it for themselves, while also having invited you along for the journey. Thankfully, this has allowed us to compile a list of the best-of-the-best when it comes to must-do character dining experiences at Orlando’s major theme parks. Based on Tim and Jenn’s recommendations, here are our 5 must do character dining experiences in Orlando.
1. Ravello Character Breakfast at the Four Seasons
The ‘Good Morning Breakfast with Goofy and His Pals’ at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort is teased by Tim and Jenn as “the best character breakfast in Orlando,” and for good reason! On Thursdays, Saturdays, and select Tuesdys, this buffet-style breakfast experience offers an extensive selection of traditional breakfast selections, in addition to an omelette bar. Of course, no character dining experience would be complete without the stars of the breakfast themselves – Goofy and his pals! These entertaining stars roam table-to-table throughout the length of breakfast, accompanied by an on-site photographer ready to capture that perfect moment with all families on site.
2. Chef Mickey’s
Next on our list of must-do character dining experiences is Chef Mickey’s Character Buffet, located at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Enjoy such potential meet-and-greets as: Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Pluto, Donald Duck, and Goofy, all from the comfort of your table. As the monorail rides by, enjoy an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet loaded with buttermilk biscuits, fresh fruit, hickory smoked bacon, and of course, Mickey Waffles! This incredible dining experience is offered daily, so be sure to check the availability of Chef Mickey’s for your next Walt Disney World Resort visit.
3. Marvel Character Dinner
This dining experience is for the Marvel fan at heart. At Universal Orlando Resort, we find a different kind of dining experience full some of comic book lore’s finest. Located at Islands of Adventure inside of the Cafe 4, this character dining experience is unlike any other, allowing you to team up with your favorite superhero characters such as Captain America and Spider-Man while also enjoying a fulfilling buffet-style meal. This character dining experience is offered Thursday-Sunday, but is subject to change without notice, so be sure to inquire about the availability of this character dining experience the next time you are planning a trip to the place where you vacation like you mean it!
4. Breakfast at Cinderella’s Royal Table
Our next character dining experience is a perfect fit for those who are considered royalty. Cinderella’s Royal Table – located inside of Cinderella Castle at the Magic Kingdom – is a regal character dining located within a dining area unlike any other. From the moment the sun begins to rise over the Magic Kingdom, guests are treated to a variety of delectable dining options, including: stuffed french toast, steak and eggs, baked quiche, and so much more. In addition to the delightful food items offered to guests who choose to dine at Cinderella’s Royal Table, guests are given the opportunity to meet some of their favorite Disney princesses all from the comfort of their table. From such favorites as Princess Aurora, Princess Jasmine, and Cinderella herself, guests are sure to enjoy the one-of-a-kind memories that can only be made with a character dining experience at Cinderella’s Royal Table.
5. Garden Grill
Last but certainly not least on our list of must-do character dining experiences on Orlando is Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Harvest Feast, located at the Garden Grille Restaurant inside of Epcot’s Living with the Land pavilion.. Be sure to bring your appetite as you and your party feast on some of the Garden Grill’s incredible menu options, including but not limited to: a harvest inspired garden salad, grilled beef with chimichurri, all-natural sliced turkey with gravy and more. While you and your party enjoy all of the food that Chip ‘n’ Dale have to offer, be sure to break out your cameras and autograph books as some of your favorite Disney characters join in on the fun and feasts that only the Garden Grill can offer!
With so many different character dining options to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which experiences are must-do’s, and which experiences you may be able to pass on. Though Tim and Jenn were able to help narrow the character dining experience list down to 5 must-do options, chances are you may only get to one or two of these magical experiences during your trip to Orlando. Be sure to plan accordingly, and don’t stress if you are unable to attend every experience. After all, that gives you another reason to visit Orlando a second time, or, a one-hundredth.
